Ty Wishart

Wishart has been given several chances to make the NHL roster, but so far has not played well enough to merit a regular spot, posting five points over 21 games with the Islanders the last two seasons. Wishart is a big man but has yet to figure out how to use that size in the NHL; if and when he does, he could have a steady role with the Islanders. As for this season, Wishart's best bet for playing time in the NHL is as a call-up during the season should any injuries befall the Islanders.

Wishart was acquired by the Islanders in the Dwayne Roloson trade. The defender has bounced around a bit as this is his third NHL team, but he's impressed the Islanders with his play and has a better-than-average chance of starting the season with the parent club. First, he will have to prove himself in camp.

Once just a defensive defender, Wishart has developed some two-way ability while in the AHL -- last year, he topped all of the Bolts' AHL defensemen with 32 points in 76 games. He's huge (6-5) but he doesn't use his body like a big man. But he understands angles and uses them well, and has developed a powerful point shot. He should make the jump to the NHL this season and could mature into a solid 35-40 point blueliner some day.

Wishart is a building block for Tampa's future but he needs a lot more polish before he's going to be of fantasy value. Defenders are always slow to develop -- keeper leaguers should cut him loose for now and pick him up after he develops. That could be several years.

Wishart vaulted to near the top of the Bolts' list of prospects when he arrived in central Florida as part of the Dan Boyle trade. He's big and strong, with top offensive ability. Time will tell if he can translate that offensive success from junior into similar pro output, but it sure will be fun watching. Keeper leagues should monitor his AHL efforts early this season and be prepared to pounce.

Wishart will be a solid defenseman in a couple years, but he needs some time in the minors first.

Wishart is a solid, top-four defenseman who prefers to keep his own crease clear than fill the opposition's. This stay-at-home defender will have a long NHL career but he'll be worthless in the fantasy arena.